You are here

MDE marks Veterans Day by highlighting a military veteran-turned-educator

LANSING – In honor of Veterans Day, the Michigan Department of Education is highlighting an educator who overcame injuries sustained while on active duty and now inspires his students in the Grand Rapids Public Schools, in the second #proudMIeducator video of the 2018-19 school year.

Retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel Bryan Forney teaches math and science at Innovation Central High School in Grand Rapids. Following his recovery from serious injuries sustained in a helicopter crash, Forney obtained his Michigan teaching credentials with assistance from the Troops to Teachers program and continued his life of service to others.

“Lt. Col. Forney is an extraordinary representative of military veterans continuing their service by teaching and inspiring Michigan’s young people in our classrooms,” said Interim State Superintendent Sheila Alles. “Our Troops to Teachers program offers veterans a way to become teachers, use their knowledge and experience, and help students prepare for success now and in the next phase of their lives.”

This is the 16th video released by MDE during the #proudMIeducator campaign, which began in September 2016. The campaign recognizes and celebrates the great work being done by Michigan educators.

The #proudMIeducator series is just one way the MDE honors its educators as it works to become a Top 10 education state in 10 years. This program aids in that goal by honoring the work of our educators and promoting the teacher workforce as the skilled and desirable profession it truly is.

You can watch previous #proudMIeducator videos from

To participate in the #proudMIeducator campaign, Like/Follow MDE and the Office of Educator Excellence on social media:

Facebook: @MichDeptEd and @MIEducator

Twitter: @MIEducation and @MIEducator

Instagram: @MiEducator

YouTube: @michdepted

Like, share, and comment on the videos throughout the year. Use #proudMIeducator to celebrate the work of Proud Michigan Educators.